I'M SURE this isn't the first time Gyp has had his face in the papers.

But it's a habit that's discouraged while the five-year-old Doberman cross carries out his Southampton paper round.

In fact, Gyp more than manages to keep his nose for news under control when he takes to the streets with his weekly bundle of papers.

The rescued dog from Fair Oak's St Francis animal shelter has proved to be a popular co-worker for 17-year-old Sarah Saunders as she goes out and about delivering the Echo's sister paper The Advertiser.

Sarah, who brought Gyp to her West End home four years ago, said: "Every Thursday, I deliver the Advertiser and so does Gyp.

"I have a cart for the papers and he walks beside it with me all the way. People come out of their houses, not to see me but Gyp.

"They give him food and leave drinks outside their doors for him.

"He's outgoing and friendly and gets on with most people.

"He always likes anyone with biscuits."

While Sarah, a student at Eastleigh's Barton Peveril college, is soon to give up her round and pass it on to her 13-year-old brother Simon, she knows Gyp will always stay close by her side.

"Gyp will still be my companion, protecting me wherever I go. He really is Old Faithful, as described by the people on my round", she added.

Do you own an adopted pet - perhaps found through this page - that has brought you a great deal of happiness Then contact me here at the pets page with your rescued pet tale.

Converted for the new archive on 25 January 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.